Meeting held at Mukilteo City Hall council chambers on July 23, 2015. Meeting called to order at 7:02 p.m.
Minutes from the June board meeting were reviewed. One correction regarding fence replacement projects (changed “submitted” to “completed”) was made. Minutes were approved with this correction.
The Picnic Point Preservation Committee attend this meeting and explained their past achievements in postponing the Frognal Estates development. They also covered their current challenges and time frame. The committee is concerned with landslide and safety concerns, increased water run-off, decreased property values, and increased traffic and congestion on local streets. The committee stated that the only hope of blocking the development is to file appeals, and this will cost a substantial sum. Representatives noted that an additional $19K is needed in September. She urged all members to make it clear that publicity, feedback, and support from local residents are of paramount importance.
Reports
Treasurer distributed copies of the July treasurer’s report, the June bank statement, and the budget comparison report. Board president verified that the checking and savings passbook balances were the same as those in the reports. Board members reviewed the small number of homeowners who are past due, and discussed how to best address this issue. A check was signed to cover the cost incurred in sending out the intent-to-lien letters. The treasurer report that two copies of the letter were sent to each of the home owners involved. One by certified mail, and one by regular mail.
Old Business:
Insurance – Treasurer reported that the cost of insurance on our physical structure (fences, signs, mailboxes, etc.) has increased. The second payment for 2015 will put us over the budgeted amount. He noted that we will need to increase this on the 2016 budget.
No Parking Signs – Signs have disappeared from cul-de-sacs in Division 1 and in Division 4. Board president said that he would follow up with the county.
ACC violations – Board agrees to follow up with homeowner brought these issues to our attention at the June board meeting. Specifically, the board will inquire as to what documentation he has made. Photographic proof of violations will be needed when the issues are brought to the attention of the property owners.
Friendly Reminder Letter – Secretary plans to revamp the “friendly reminder letter” about neighborhood etiquette and CC&R regulations.
Landscaping – Three bids were obtained for the maintenance on the detention pond and for maintenance on the stairs. Terrestrial Landscaping was notably less expensive and board approved their bid for the jobs.
Brush clearing on Tract 993 – bids were solicited from three tree services. Kenny Tree sub-contracted this to Brush Monster and their bid was the lowest of the three. It involved mechanically cutting brush, but not removal of debris. Board agreed that, if necessary, we could hire out the removal of the debris at a later date. Bid was approved by board at 8:06 p.m.
Tree trimming on Tract 987 – Bids on trimming the cottonwood tree, two alders and two maples were reviewed and awarded to Kenny Tree at 8:10 p.m. Treasurer will contact vendors and arrange for the work to be scheduled.
Tree issues – It is agreed that, based on information from the county and from our lawyer, an arborist must be hired to perform a base-line report of the overall condition of the trees in our common areas. This report will be used to direct tree projects over the next few years. This base-line report will need to be done again at regular intervals. Input from the arborist should help in determining the frequency for updating the report The treasurer will contact arborists and obtain estimates on cost of an initial report.
Treasurer contacted Frank Scherf (Senior Environmental Planner for Snohomish County) regarding process for cutting or trimming trees in NG/WHPA. He related that:
- Procedure for obtaining permission from Snohomish County is not on-line
- Ownership of property on which tree is situated must be established
- To determine if a tree is considered hazardous, homeowner needs an evaluation by a qualified tree arborist. Report needs to specify is tree can be trimmed or if it needs to be totally removed.
- Armed with this evaluation, homeowner should contact Alan Husby (Snohomish County – 425-388-3311, Ext. 2063) to determine cutting procedure and replacement ratio.
- Homeowner needs to contact a licensed and bonded tree service to perform work.
Mr. Scherf noted that the county does not oversee all cutting projects. However, if anyone complains about as project in a NG/WHPA, having followed these steps will protect a homeowner.
New Issues –
Homeowner tree – A homeowner in Division 1 has contacted board, requesting permission to cut a tree on her property. Since the tree is on her property, and the location is not in a NG/WHPA, the board had no objections.
PPPC Support – The treasurer noted that we have reserves that the HOA can draw from to make a contribution. Board votes at 8:16 p.m. to support the PPPC financially. The discussion then raised on how to best rally REHOA residents and raise awareness. Board members suggest a flyer with four bullet points: traffic, property values, safety, and peace of mind. The flyer should also give notice of the next PPPC meeting. This should best be done by walking door-to-door. Again, making noise is important: send emails, editorials, etc.
Date for August meeting – It was suggested that arrangements could be made for a board meeting on August 26th and for a general meeting on November 4th or 11th. Dates can be reserved up to three months in advance. However, all Mondays and most Thursdays are already reserved for City Council activity. City Hall employees also noted that reservations on Tuesday can be bumped at the last minute if the Monday night meeting of the Council spills over and needs additional time. Treasurer will visit Mukilteo City Hall and report on what dates are available.
Meeting adjourned at 8:47 p.m.